Tabletop Sand Gardens

four 12" long scrap pieces of 1" x 4" wood
one 13" square piece of 1/2" plywood
wood glue
electric drill with small bit/screw head attachment
eight 2" wood screws
hammer and finishing nails
play sand
white acrylic paint (watered down) and brush
seashell and other beach finds

Steps:

1. Connect the four 1 x 4s at the corners by butting them together and attaching with screws. Drill pilot holes first if necessary. This creates a four-inch deep box.
2. Place on a flat surface and align the 13-inch square piece on top. Attach to box with hammer and finishing nails. Flip over so that it becomes the bottom.
3. White-wash piece (allow the grain to show through for a beach-type look) and let dry completely.
4. Fill with sand to within one inch from top edge.
5. Arrange shells and other beach finds in a decorative manner.